What is myeloma?
Myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells. It happens most often in adults over the age of 50. Plasma cells are found in the bone marrow and produce antibodies (immunoglobulins) that protect you against disease. Myeloma is when the bone marrow has a type of immunoglobulin that reproduces uncontrollably. Myeloma cells can disrupt normal blood production and the functioning of the immune system, damage the kidneys, and form into masses.
In Canada, there was an estimated 3,400 new cases of myeloma in 2020.
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What happens next?
Telling others you have myeloma
Talking to family and friends
Telling your children
Speaking with your employer
Taking charge of your care
Preparing for appointments
Understanding lab results
Asking for a second opinion
Managing your new reality
Coping with fear, anxiety and stress
Taking care of your body
Managing fatigue and cognitive challenges
Understanding insurance and organizing finances
Resources on myeloma
Read
Download fact sheets, guides and other resources to learn everything from the disease symptoms, statistics and treatment options.
Watch
Play the video to better understand the diagnosis, treatment and research progress for this disease.
Why the type of myeloma matters
There are many types of myeloma. Doctors divide myeloma into groups that describe how fast or slowly the disease is progressing. The treatment for myeloma varies according to the type You may find that learning about your diagnosis once you know the type of myeloma involved will help you better understand the disease and its treatment.
Subtypes
Doctors classify myeloma into subtypes by using various tests. The subtype plays a large part in deciding the type of treatment.
Localized myeloma
Extramedullary myeloma
Plasmacytoma